Light peeks through the top of my curtains. In a blur of lazy twilight, dreams see themselves in dim awareness. My mind plays strange games as it slowly returns to being myself. As I gently pull myself out of bed, the thought of a fragrant cup of coffee is very motivating. Although the sky is gloom and the wind cold, I feel a subtle joy. Warm water falling on my head officially marks the beginning of another day.
Gray and dim morning
Crisp brew Colombian roast
Here I am again
The pavement almost blends with the sky. People walk briskly. My steps are also hurried, although I wish they weren’t so. If only I had spent a little less time in the shower. Pacing up Roebling, then turning left on 7th street, a journey so familiar it is almost instantaneous. My music keeps me company, as it always does. The train platform is crowded at this time, so I know the ride will be cramped. So many faces. Our bodies are so close. How is it most of us are lonely? A common question, and an interesting one at that. The next Manhattan bound L train is approaching the station. Please stand away from the platform edge. A gust of wind tosses the edges of my coat like in the movies.
Subterranean
A monster at ultra-high speed
Hearing loss awaits
Walking out of the 23rd street station, it is difficult not to feel like I have been transported to another world: a more imposing location, with a different pace. These sights remain fresh after months and years. My senses are fully engaged here. I feel like I am walking through the beating heart of all the world. New York is a good place to discover a more dynamic kind of meditative awareness, and I am happy to let all these sights and sounds nourish my soul. I am nearing my destination now. Gramercy is a stunningly beautiful neighborhood, and I very much enjoy spending so much time here.
Education is something I am passionate about. It is frightening to think of how fortunate I am to be here, sitting in class. My attention is fully engaged here, and I am excited by every new discovery. I am far from being able to forget myself, but being mindful of the present is much easier when I am in this temple of knowledge. Every minute is an investment, and my family is proud. This makes me very happy. Stress is a part of this reality, but it is justified. It is all worth it… I sound so corny right now.
An oversized sail
Of steel curiosity
Hope for the future